Casuarina Pods are a long-lasting natural aquarium botanical with an intricate, pine-cone-like structure that shrimp keepers and blackwater enthusiasts prize for both their look and their function. As they slowly release tannins into the water, they help create a natural tannin-rich environment often used for shrimp, bettas, and many nano fish species.
Their textured surfaces become grazing spots for biofilm-feeding shrimp within days of submersion, and the hollow chambers provide tiny hiding spots for shrimplets. Each pod is 100% natural, untreated, and aquarium-safe when rinsed as directed — and adds a natural, sculptural look to any setup. They last several months underwater before fully breaking down.
Freshwater shrimp, snails, bettas, nano fish, and invertebrates when prepared as directed
Prep
Rinse first; soak or boil to release initial tannins
Why It Works
Product Highlights
01
Biofilm Grazing Surface
Their intricate, textured structure develops biofilm within days of submersion — a steady food source for Neocaridina, Caridina, and shrimplets.
02
Natural Tannin Release
Slowly releases tannins and humic substances over weeks, helping create a more natural, shaded blackwater-style look for bettas, shrimp, and nano fish.
03
Long-Lasting Aquascape Detail
A sculptural, sea-urchin-like form that looks natural in any planted tank. Lasts several months before fully breaking down.
How to Use
Prep & Placement
Rinse pods thoroughly before adding to your aquarium. To speed up sinking and release the initial tannin burst, soak in dechlorinated water for 24–48 hours or boil for 10–15 minutes before placing in the tank.
Use 1–3 pods per tank depending on size and desired tannin level. They pair well with cholla wood, catappa leaves, and alder cones for a fuller blackwater-style effect. Replace pods as they fully break down — usually after several months.
Quick Setup Checklist
Rinse under warm water to remove dust
Boil 10–15 minutes or soak 24–48 hours to release initial tannins
Sink to the bottom or wedge into hardscape
Replace every 4–8 weeks as it breaks down naturally
Safe to use multiple pieces for higher tannin output
Pairs Well With
Build a Better Shrimp Tank
Botanicals work best alongside mosses, plants, and shrimp food. Build a complete natural setup.
Yes — 100% natural and untreated. No coatings, no additives, no pesticides. Aquarium-safe when rinsed as directed. Commonly used in shrimp, snail, and nano fish aquariums.
Will they discolor the water?+
They may gently tint the water amber as mild tannins release over time. The effect is gradual. Pre-soaking before use reduces the initial intensity.
How many should I use?+
1–3 pods per tank depending on size and desired tannin level. Smaller nano tanks need fewer; larger tanks or stronger blackwater-style setups can use more.
What is the free shipping threshold?+
Free shipping on plants and dry goods at $75+.
Do I need to prepare them before adding to my tank?+
Rinse them thoroughly first. Boiling for 10–15 minutes or soaking for 24–48 hours helps them sink faster and releases the initial tannin burst before they enter your aquarium.
How long do they last?+
Casuarina pods break down very slowly underwater — typically lasting several months in a stable aquarium. Replace as they fully decompose.
How is it shipped?+
Packed securely and shipped Monday through Thursday via standard ground shipping. Plants and dry goods ship free at $75+. Transit times vary by location.
Can I order this with livestock?+
Yes. Dry goods can ship together with livestock orders.
Why Order From Razz Aquatics
Packed With Care. Every Order.
Every product we stock is chosen and tested for aquarium use. We run over 100 dedicated aquariums on-site — we use these products ourselves. Family-owned, packed in-house, and backed without fine print.